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Jantar Mantar: Delhi's Astronomical Marvel

Explore Jantar Mantar, Delhi: a historic observatory showcasing 18th-century astronomical instruments and India's scientific heritage.

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Jantar Mantar in New Delhi is an 18th-century astronomical observatory, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur. It features a collection of architectural instruments designed for observing celestial bodies and accurately predicting time, showcasing India's advanced scientific knowledge during that era.

A brief summary to Jantar Mantar

  • J6G8+RMC, Connaught Place, Sansad Marg, New Delhi, Janpath, Connaught Place, Delhi, 110001, IN
  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Hire a guide or use an audio tour to understand the function and significance of each instrument.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during summer, as Delhi's heat can be intense.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Connaught Place, India Gate, or the National Museum.
  • Photography is free, but there is a charge for video filming.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The nearest metro station to Jantar Mantar is Patel Chowk on the Yellow Line. From the station, it's a short walk of about 600-700 meters. Alternatively, you can exit at Rajiv Chowk or Janpath metro stations, which are also within 1 km. From the metro stations, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or walk to Jantar Mantar. Metro fares range from ₹10 to ₹60 depending on the distance traveled.

  • Bus

    Several DTC (Delhi Transport Corporation) buses connect to Connaught Place, stopping near Jantar Mantar. Palika Kendra is the nearest bus stand, located right outside the entry gate. Bus fares typically range from ₹5 to ₹25.

  • Taxi/Auto-rickshaw

    Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available throughout Delhi. You can hire one from any part of the city to reach Jantar Mantar. From Connaught Place, a short ride will cost approximately ₹50 to ₹100. Parking is available near the observatory, but it can be limited, especially during peak hours.

  • Walking

    If you are in Connaught Place, Janpath, or Parliament Street, Jantar Mantar is easily accessible by foot. It's a short walk from these locations, allowing you to explore the surroundings.

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Discover more about Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar, located in the heart of New Delhi, stands as a testament to India's rich scientific heritage. Constructed in 1724 by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur, a passionate astronomer, it is the first of five observatories he built across India. The primary objective was to compile astronomical tables and accurately predict the movements of the sun, moon, and planets. The observatory comprises 13 distinct architectural astronomy instruments made of stone and brick. Among the most notable are the Samrat Yantra, a massive sundial used to measure time accurately; the Jai Prakash Yantra, consisting of hemispherical structures with marked marble slabs; the Ram Yantra, used to measure the altitude of planets; and the Misra Yantra, a combination of five instruments used to determine the shortest and longest days of the year. Over the years, Jantar Mantar has undergone repairs and restorations. The instruments, based on ancient Egyptian Ptolemaic structures, follow the celestial orders of the equatorial, ecliptic, and horizon-zenith local arrangement. Despite the construction of tall buildings around the structure affecting the accuracy of the data, Jantar Mantar remains a significant monument and a major tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into India's scientific achievements in astronomy. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its unique blend of science, history, and architecture.

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